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By APD Writer Melo M. Acuna
**MANILA , July 7(APD)– **President Rodrigo Duterte said it’s the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) who’s behind the Marawi seige.
Speaking before military troops at Malandag, Malungon, Saranggani in Southern Philippines, President Duterte said they already knew of the ISIS in Mindanao.
“We knew they were traveling back and forth to the Middle East to get instructions,” he said.
He added there were no covert acts during that time and he knew they cannot control the movement.
“We never expected the enormity of their weapons,” he added referring to the hardware the Maute Group and Abu Sayyaf had in the Marawi City attack which has entered into its 44th day today.
He said he is thankful for the support accorded him when he decided to declare Martial Law in Mindanao.
“Senators (Panfilo) Lacson and (Gregorio) Honasan know the situation,” he explained.
The Supreme Court, with an 11 – 3 – 1 vote opted to dismiss the petitions questioning the basis of Mr. Duterte’s Martial Law declaration last May 23.
Meanwhile, Brig. General Restituto Padilla, Armed Forces of the Philippines’ spokesman said government troops have already killed 343 members of the Maute and Abu Sayyaf operating in Marawi City.
However, Presidential Communications Director Omar Romero, in a briefing in Malacanang this afternoon said 39 civilians have been killed while 85 government troops have been killed in the 44 days of fighting which began last May 23.
It was learned they have already rescued some 1,722 civilians from the beleaguered city.
Two Vietnamese seafarers were beheaded by the Abu Sayyaf in Sumisip, Basilan.
Government troops confirmed the two were part of the crew of a Vietnamese boat passing Basilan seas when Abu Sayyaf men held them hostage.
One was rescued by government troops last month while three others remain in the Abu Sayyaf custody.
(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)
